BEST10 ULTIMATE JAPANESE IZAKAYA FOOD TOUR IN TOKYO, JAPAN 2024
Welcome to a slice of Tokyo’s urban charm. Just a minutes walk from Shimokitazawa
station, nestled within Mikan, a vibrant complex spawned
from the historic embankments of the Kaio Inokashira line lies a world
where work and play blend seamlessly. Mikan and comprising five distinct blocks,
symbolizes a fusion of genres and values, mirroring
the eclectic spirit of Shimokitazawa. Here the unexpected becomes
the norm and a tapestry of diverse people and experiences
weaves itself together as you step into
the heart of this bustling area. You’ll find more than just
a traditional izakaya from the popular bookstore city to an array of tantalizing
Thai restaurants. There’s something for every taste. My visit at around 5PM on a weekday reveals a lively, yet cozy atmosphere with a few groups already
enjoying the ambiance. While walk ins are welcome. I recommend making a reservation,
especially as the place tends to get busier around 6PM. The izakaya
here embraces the concept of Japan craft. Every detail from the counter
to the lighting and furniture is a testament
to the skill of Japanese artisans. This isn’t just a place to dine. It’s an immersive experience
of Japanese culture and charm. The focus on shochu a traditional Japanese spirit is evident. You’ll find classic drinks alongside innovative concoctions
tailored for the modern palate. The menu, featuring daily and weekly
specials, offers a variety of dishes that perfectly complement
the showcase selections. My culinary journey
began with a delightful seared yellowtail and a unique eggplant dish,
both available as single servings. The highlight,
however, was the freshly made carrot. These generously sized, crispy
fried chicken pieces are a testament to flavor and texture
perfectly paired with a strong drink and for a refreshing twist. Don’t miss the signature fruit punch
sour a delightful mix of mango, banana and more. For a lighter option, the Mediterraneo Akira with Korean
seaweed is a must try. Served on a large plate. It’s a simple, yet satisfying dish
where you mix the ingredients yourself and wrap them in seaweed. Its popularity
among solo diners and regulars, especially women, adds to the inclusive
and welcoming vibe of the izakaya. So whether you’re a solo adventurer
or in a group looking for a taste of Japan’s craft
or just a cozy spot to unwind this corner of Shimokitazawa
has something special for you. Join us and let’s create memorable moments together. All right. I’m just a hop away from Yutengi Station. This area often overshadowed by its
more famous neighbor, Nakameguro, exudes a quiet charm, distinctly different
from the usual tourist spots in. All right. I’m just a hop away from the Yutenji station. This area, often overshadowed by its
more famous neighbor, Nakameguro, exudes a quiet charm, distinctly different
from the usual tourist spots. Our destination is a unique spot on
the second floor of a building near Yutenji Station. It’s a bit of a hidden treasure,
almost like a secret base which has been buzzing on Instagram
lately. This place, popular
among young women in their twenties, often sees groups
enjoying the cozy ambiance inside. The restaurant is a
haven of antique elegance with a kitchen surrounded by a wraparound counter. This layout makes it surprisingly
welcoming for solo diners like myself. The menu here is a delightful puzzle,
constantly changing. Every two weeks.
It’s always brimming with choices. Their signature dishes, along with the recommended options like Oden,
make deciding what to eat a fun challenge. Adding to the charm is the unique system
where you can choose from three different types of appetizers. I went for the warm Mulan,
a perfect comfort district, cold days. The fried spring rolls served. Piping hot by the staff are a must try. Wrapped in a crispy shell,
they’re filled with crunchy jam and melting cheese. A hit among the ladies for sure. The Oden selection isn’t just the usual
radish and cognac, though. They also offer
unique items like seaweed, mozzarella and premium yellowtail. I paired these with a dry
steak named Izumi, recommended specifically for Oden. Among the restaurant’s three specialties, chicken sashimi,
grilled young chicken and grilled egg. I chose the chicken sashimi. It’s available in single servings, but I went for the regular size,
which was surprisingly manageable for one. Visually striking the dishes here
are not only Instagram worthy, but also offer great value
for their generous portions. For those looking to enjoy with friends,
they also offer an all you can drink course, making it an ideal
spot for group gatherings. We’re at Gaugei-daigaku station, a bustling express
stop on the Tokyu-toyoko line. Just four stations away from Shibuya. With around 80,000
daily passengers, It’s a lively hub, especially since it used to be near
the major award office. Though the ward office moved near Nakameguro Station in the early 2000,
leading to a dip in foot traffic. This area has recently been
regaining its popularity. Gochujang Daegu is renowned
for its vibrant shopping streets, particularly the East Exit Shopping
Street, stretching about 300 meters, just wide enough for a car
to pass through. It’s lined with a diverse
array of eateries and retail stores. The area is characterized
by its local intimate shops and stylish dining spots
hidden in the alleys. I made a reservation for around 5:30 p.m. on a Saturday and the place was already
buzzing with activity. Interestingly,
this spot has a unique rule in Tokyo a two hour seating limit
and a minimum ward. The restaurant is cozy with a kitchen encircled by counters,
seats and about three table seats. The warm, homey
ambiance is accentuated by the wood decor. The counter in particular offers
a friendly atmosphere where you’re close enough
to chat with the staff and fellow diners. Despite being almost full,
the service was prompt. Thanks to the four staff members
efficiently managing the kitchen. Now let’s talk about the food. I started with their original drink. Carbo sour. Priced at ¥650. It’s a unique twist on the classic lemon
sour softened with honey for a sweet, less acidic taste. The menu is impressively extensive,
offering a delightful dilemma of choices from cold dishes, hot dishes, charcoal grilled items, desserts
to snacks. I opted for the smoked chicken and lotus root macaroni
salad for ¥600 from the day’s specials. The combination of the crunchy lotus root
and the Italian style seasoning
was unexpectedly harmonious. Next,
the appetizer platter for ¥800, featuring five varieties like celery, liver,
cauliflower with Tasmanian mustard, mayonnaise, omelet
and marinated sea bream. Each item was just the right size
for sharing and beautifully presented on a wooden board, making it perfect
for a social media story. The spiced cauliflower salad was
pleasantly mild despite its Asian twist. The seasonal fruit, prosciutto and honey
Gorgonzola mousse for ¥800 featured pear topped generously
with gorgonzola mousse. Here we are Sangenjaya,
a lively station just two stops from Shibuya
on the Tokyu-denen toshi line. Known for its youthful vibe,
Sangenjaya is a favorite among working professionals
in their twenties and 30 seconds. Thanks to its convenient access
to shabu, it’s bustling. I’d venture seeing a quick 15 minute
bike ride along Chaya Street, north of the station. We’ll also take you to Shimo Kitagawa, famous for its vintage
clothing stores and vibrant street life. Our highlight for today is a quaint Kyushu Izakaya,
a mere five minute walk from the station. The interior has a nostalgic feel
reminiscent of an old Japanese house, complete with sunken coat
tops of seating table seats and a counter. A word of caution. The tops of seats might feel a bit snug
for a group of four men as a Kyushu izakaya. It’s a haven for those craving dishes
like Motsu-nabe, Beef offal, hotpot and horse sashimi, as well as a lively spot to chat
and hang out with friends. The Izakaya concept revolves around
bringing Kyushu delicacies to Tokyo. You can savor Hakata’s famous bite sized
Gyoza, Kumamoto’s local specialty Horse sashimi, Nagasaki champagne and no eat
is renowned for it and chicken tempura. All without leaving the city. They also boast a wide selection of Kyushu
soju and locals sake. Perfect for those looking to explore
different Japanese alcoholic beverages. Some of the standout dishes I tried included the Kumamoto direct
delivery horse sashimi. Delightful bite
sized gives a two servings for ¥1,380. Spicy grilled men taiko six ato yen and who caught a long eggplant
in a sweet and savory sauce. 630 yen. And of course, I couldn’t miss the signature dish. Beef Motsu-nabe, priced at ¥1,590. The hot parts broth is subtly flavored,
allowing you to customize the taste with soy sauce
or yuzu pepper to your liking. It’s an interactive and enjoyable dish
that lets you experience a variety of flavors. So if you’re in Tokyo and looking to experience
the culinary delights of Kyushu, join us on a short eight minute stroll
from Shibuya station to a hidden gem. A local izakaya
cherished by those in the know. Nestled halfway between Shibuya
and Shinsen stations. This area is a favorite among regulars. Slightly away
from the bustling center of Shibuya. Speaking of Shibuya,
it’s divided into roughly five areas the busy downtown district, the Nanpeidai
and Sakura-zaka areas, the Aoyama and Maitake street areas, the Cat street
area and the Oka Shibuya area. We’re venturing into the “Oku Shibuya”
area today, a spot that has recently gained popularity
among adults. This part of Shibuya, stretching
beyond the Tokyo Department store from Shibuya Center Street towards
yo yo guy is not just a high end residential area. It also boasts a mix of old school shopping streets and trendy eateries and shops. It offers a different, quieter side of Shibuya, away
from its usual hustle and bustle. Our visit on a Friday night around
10:30 p.m. revealed a nearly full izakaya popular for second or third
rounds of drinks after a night out. Make sure to book early as reservations
fill up fast, especially for laid hours close to Shinsen station. The izakaya seems to attract mostly
male customers. It’s more about lively group gatherings and solo drinking
with a consistently vibrant atmosphere. Being a short walk from Shibuya station,
it feels like a spot frequented more by regulars
than casual passersby for dinner. We tried the Okinawa soba
with beef and leeks for ¥900. The dish was a delightful surprise, rich
in flavor and different from regular soba. The noodles were thick
resembling Udon, and the mochi like texture
perfectly complemented the spicy sauce. A unique dish from Okinawa. It was my first time
trying it in Tokyo, and it’s certainly something that pairs well with drinks
and leaves and craving more. We’re just an eight
minute walk away from Shibuya station at a buzzing Italian bar
that has become the talk of the town. Nestled between Shibuya and Stinson
stations, this spot is a bit off the beaten path,
making it a favorite among regulars who seek a lively, yet
intimate dining experience. This place is always like a festival with high energy staff,
setting the tone for an upbeat evening. They even have a fun interaction
where you can do it some more with the staff
for a ¥100 discount on certain drinks. Talk about an icebreaker. Despite its popularity,
I had to try it for myself. Paired with Italian dishes that change
monthly there, their limited edition specialties like spiced grilled lobster
and woodfired Napoli pizza are a must try. Featuring seasonal Japanese ingredients
and classic Italian preparations. Our order included white peach and burrata cheese for ¥1,580. Cod Roe and Kujo Green Onion Ajillo for 780 yen, Reggiano and Truffle Pizza, and Godiva Tiramisu for 780 yen. The white peach and burrata cheese
was an absolute delight with the seasonal fruit
perfectly complementing the cheese. The pizzas available as half and half upon
request, included a classic Reggiano with a hint of spicy sesame and jalapeno and a unique truffle and egg combination. That was quite a hit,
especially among the ladies. The Ajillo, perfect with a slice of French bread, was a great accompaniment
for drinks with the salty flavor and texture of the green onions
and the Godiva tiramisu. It was served with freshly shaved Godiva
ice cream on top, adding a live cooking flair to the dessert. Overall, this place is ideal for a girls
night out or anyone looking to enjoy a vibrant
and trendy dining experience in Shibuya. So if you’re in Tokyo
and craving Italian with a twist, this is the spot to be. We find ourselves in the charming
neighborhood of Nakameguro, just a stone’s throw away from the well-known
mackerel River Nakameguro, adjacent to the previously mentioned Yutenji station,
is especially bustling on weekends. The area is famous for its beautiful
cherry blossoms and fireworks along the river with cozy cafes
and the popular Starbucks reserve roastery attracting long lines of coffee
lovers, particularly on weekends. Now let’s talk about the izakaya. We’re featuring today. This place is a hit among the younger
crowd with about 80% of the clientele being women. It’s common to see couples, but
it’s mainly groups of women who frequent this spot. The interior design and menu seem tailored
to appeal more to women with a vibe that’s more akin to a cafe
than a traditional izakaya. It’s perfect for those who usually shy
away from regular drinking spots, but are looking for a casual place
to enjoy a drink. The counter doesn’t resemble
your typical izakaya set up, but rather exudes
the elegance of a cafe bar. The interior dominated by white tones
and tables set to enhance the visual appeal of your meals
is designed to be Instagram worthy. Whether it’s the private tables
or the communal long tables, the setup strays from the usual izakaya
feel. For those interested
in creative cuisine and unique drinks, this neo izakaya
offers an exciting array of choices. The drinks menu includes a range of sours
priced between 500 to ¥700, served in a adorable glasses
adorned with cute illustrations. Perfect for those photo moments. The drinks themselves
are visually appealing with fruit packed options and others
resembling matcha lattes. The food menu, while relatively simple, includes classic
izakaya dishes like seafood, chicken meatballs, toro taco fatty
tuna with pickled radish and ice age, seaweed wrapped fried items. However, keep in mind
that while the portions are modest, you might end up spending a bit more
if you’re looking for a hearty meal. Again, we are at Gakugei-daigaku introducing an izakaya
that’s all about celebrating the wonders of tuna known as a tuna specialty shop. It offers an intriguing dish
you might not have tried before. Tuna, Yuka Nico Seafood lovers
prepare to be enthralled. The heart of this izakaya is
philosophy is the revival of fish eating culture in Japan, a nation traditionally
leaning towards meat consumption. Their mission to contribute
to the health of Japanese people and to boost the declining fishing industry by increasing the
population of fish eaters. My visit on a weekday right after opening felt
like being the first to discover a secret. The early hours are quiet while I manage to get a seat
without a reservation. Booking in advance is recommended
for later hours. The interior has a casual vibe. Typical of izakaya, with spacious
seating arrangements from group tables at the front, two counter seats
and more tables along the walls. The warm wooden decor,
lively illustrations of tuna and menu boards
add to the vibrant, energetic setting. While the izakaya feels familiar
and inviting, its cleanliness
and spaciousness are notable pluses. Sitting at the counter, I enjoyed the up
close view of some of the cooking, adding to the immersive experience. Seasonal vegetables on display at the cooking station
also added a nice touch of seasonality. One of the standout dishes is the Hon. Tuna(Maguro) Sukiyaki for 1880 yen,
a tuna version of the traditional sukiyaki cooked right in front of you
and enjoyed dipped in egg. It’s a revelation, even for those
who thought they knew tuna well. Besides this,
the menu offers a variety of dishes from sashimi to fried and stewed options,
all reasonably priced. If you’re in Tokyo and looking for a unique dining experience
with a focus on one of Japan’s most beloved fish, this is a kind
Gochujang Daigou is a must visit. Perfect for an evening of new discoveries
and delicious tuna dishes. Again, I am Gakugei-daigaiku right now. This is a Korea quickly fills up
just 30 minutes after opening, so we recommend making a reservation
if you plan to visit during peak hours. Early evening,
however, is perfect for walk ins, giving you a chance
to enjoy a more relaxed atmosphere. The clientele here is quite diverse,
with university students, families and solo diners
all finding their comfortable spot. The variety in the food menu caters to all tastes and ages, making it
a versatile choice for any diner. The izakaya is inviting exterior
with windows. Allowing a peek inside naturally draws
you into its casual and approachable setting. The interior, with its large wooden counters
and tables, exudes a clean and open feel. The lack of intimidating exclusivity
makes this spot perfect for everyone looking for a good time. The stylish blend of a retro signboard
and a modern interior makes it an ideal spot for dates as well. One of the highlights
here is the skewers starting at just under ¥300 prepared in full view
for that added touch of excitement. The menu also features a variety
of small dishes perfect for pairing with drinks, ensuring solo diners
can enjoy a full meal without any hassle. Not to mention
the hearty ham cutlet for ¥759 and homemade raisin butter also for ¥759,
which are fantastic with wine and showcase
the wide range of options available here. Whether you’re dining alone with a group
or on a date, this Izakaya offers
versatility and quality in every dish. Unlike some noisier places,
this one strikes a perfect balance between lively and cozy,
making it great for girls nights out. Casual dates or just a couple of drinks. The neo izakaya tag fits well,
but it’s not just about trendy looks. It’s about genuinely good food
and a welcoming atmosphere. Given its location in an area
surrounded by various drinking spots. This Izakaya is an excellent choice for starting your night out or as a second
stop to enjoy some counter time. So if you’re engaged, I got you. This is the place to be for an authentic
and enjoyable dining experience. The final highlight of our Tokyo Izakaya
adventure. This time I’m taking you to a special spot
that’s not just close to a station, but a true hidden treasure
known to Tokyo locals. We’re in Shinjuku, a bustling area famous
for its massive station. Did you know that Shinjuku station
has the highest number of daily passengers in the world
with about 2.59 million people and with 53% of the foreign visitors
in Tokyo flocking to Shinjuku,
it surpasses even Shibuya. With over 5000 eateries and excellent
connectivity from both Haneda and Narita airports,
Shinjuku is a foodie’s paradise. The Izakaya. I’m about to introduce required
a reservation made three weeks in advance. It’s particularly popular for its chic
atmosphere and fills up quickly, especially after five. Their concept and izakaya, where you can enjoy delicious
seasonal meals without breaking the bank. The staff, mostly experienced with a few part timers, strike a balance
between friendly and professional. They’re attentive to details,
like checking if your drink needs a refill and provide
thorough explanations of the dishes. My order included seasonal fruit
and cheese wrapped in prosciutto for ¥780. The club’s potato salad for ¥689. Serious al-Jafari,
which is a horse mackerel fry for ¥900. Nagy She’ll wagyu you grubby for 1318 and seared mackerel sushi roll for ¥380. The highlight al-Jafari was a unique
take on fried horse mackerel, crispy on the outside, yet
almost sashimi like on the inside. The potato salad, customizable
with three topping choices, was a perfect pairing
with smoked pickles. And that wraps up our Izakaya tours of Tokyo. We’ve visited ten unique spots, each with its own charm
and specialties. From the bustling streets of Shinjuku
to the hidden gems in Gochujang di Goku. I hope this journey has given you a taste
of Tokyo’s vibrant izakaya culture. Thank you for joining us
and see you in the next video.
BEST10 ULTIMATE JAPANESE PUB FOOD & DRINK TOUR IN TOKYO IZAKAYA
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In this video, I introduced best10 japanese hub, IZAKAYA! Please use the time code and URL below to know the details more!
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♢Video Timeline Links♢
0:14 Shimokita Rokkaku
3:24 Yutenji Bob
6:04 Irori-bar Carbo
8:41 Kyushu cuisine and delicious sake Dontaku Sangenjaya
11:01 Yamunashi Shoto
13:16 Shinjuku DRA7
15:14 Nakame Sakaba AMUSE
17:25 Maguro Standard
19:39 Taishu Sakaba Raincolor
21:52 Meshiya Hiroki Club Shinjuku
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Links mentioned in this video:
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◼︎Shimokita Rokkaku
2-11-15 Kitazawa, Setagaya City, Tokyo
https://tabelog.com/tokyo/A1318/A131802/13269450/
◼︎Yutenji Bob
2-12-21 Yutenji, Meguro City, Tokyo
https://tabelog.com/tokyo/A1317/A131701/13270195/
◼︎Irori-bar Carbo
3-7-13 Takaban, Meguro City, Tokyo
https://tabelog.com/tokyo/A1317/A131702/13242853/
◼︎Kyushu cuisine and delicious sake Dontaku Sangenjaya
5-1-14 Taishido, Setagaya City, Tokyo
https://tabelog.com/tokyo/A1317/A131706/13226580/
◼︎Yamunashi Shoto
37-12 Udagawa-cho, Shibuya City, Tokyo
https://tabelog.com/tokyo/A1303/A130301/13279921/
◼︎Shinjuku DRA7
7-11-11 Nishi-shinjuku, Shinjuku City, Tokyo
https://tabelog.com/tokyo/A1304/A130401/13221779/
◼︎Nakame Sakaba AMUSE
1-28-3 Aobadai, Meguro City, Tokyo
https://tabelog.com/tokyo/A1317/A131701/13285300/
◼︎Maguro Standard
1-25-4 Tomioka, Koto City, Tokyo
https://tabelog.com/tokyo/A1313/A131303/13268261/
◼︎Taishu Sakaba Raincolor
3-7-13 Takaban, Meguro City, Tokyo
https://tabelog.com/tokyo/A1317/A131702/13239039/
◼︎Meshiya Hiroki Club Shinjuku
7-12-24 Nishi-shinjuku, Shinjuku City, Tokyo
https://tabelog.com/tokyo/A1304/A130401/13282540/
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🎥BEST 10 JAPANESE ULTIMATE FOOD TOUR: Japan Guide 2023
🎥BEST JAPANESE IZAKAYA TOUR IN TOKYO: JAPAN TRAVEL GUIDE 2023
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